Network Specialist - OSP Construction

TDS•Beaver Dam, WI

2d•Remote

About The Position

The Network Specialist - OSP Construction coordinates, plans, and supervises outside plant (OSP) field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states. The position oversees implementation of fiber and HFC networks in accordance with TDS OSP guidelines and standards, and ensures construction complies with current NESC codes. Depending on workload and location, the role may supervise engineering or construction consultants and assist with OSP project engineering, including labor, material, and overhead cost estimates. The specialist manages multiple construction projects, monitoring progress and costs to support on-time, on-budget completion. The role works with Network Operations, associate managers, consultants, design engineers, contractors, Finance, Legal, governmental agencies, municipalities, and other utility companies. It also supports protection of TDS network assets during proposed road improvements and may negotiate purchases, leases, or sales of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks. The position can be performed remotely from any of the 40+ states where TDS Telecom operates; preference may be given to applicants located within 45 minutes of Waupun, Wisconsin. Hiring may be at the Network Specialist-OSP Construction or Network Specialist I-OSP Construction level, depending on the candidate’s skills and qualifications.

Requirements

Associate degree or higher, or at least 2 years of professional work experience.
At least 2 years of experience in OSP construction and/or engineering involving fiber, copper, or coax; related utility or municipal construction and/or engineering; construction project management; utility installation technician work; or general trades experience.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance, which must be maintained.
Fiber optic implementation experience.
Leadership, customer relations, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and self-direct work.
GIS experience, such as ESRI ArcGIS, AGOL, or spatial analysis.
Proficiency working in a digital environment.
Understanding of the telecommunications industry and its principles.
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Project management experience.
Written and oral communication skills.
PC database, spreadsheet, and word-processing skills.
Working knowledge of NESC construction practices and engineering standards.
Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with diverse work groups.
Understanding of FTTH design and construction techniques.
Ability to read and understand FTTH construction prints.

Responsibilities

Coordinate OSP projects and/or supervise consultants coordinating outside plant field construction and splicing operations across multiple locations and states.
Provide technical support for special-request projects, including major road moves and potential on-net builds.
Work with Finance on accounting for facilities placed and with Legal to manage risk in asset transfers.
Assist with project engineering when needed, including preparing labor, material, and overhead cost estimates.
Audit OSP projects and coach consultants or contractors to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with applicable standards.
Review field reports and contractor invoices for accuracy.
Manage construction projects by reviewing work quality, resolving cleanup issues, maintaining project documentation, and monitoring progress.
Ensure the OSP group complies with Sarbanes-Oxley guidelines and coordinates with Network Operations, Network Planning, Rights-of-Way, and Contract Administration.
Conduct pre-staking, pre-bid, and pre-construction meetings as required.
Verify that rights-of-way, easements, and permits are obtained, and that designs provide proper cable sizing and facility routing.
Verify completion of required project documentation, including Bid Jobs, Build orders, Job Start Agreements, VMOPs, and closeout documentation.
Work with governmental agencies to protect the OSP network from risks associated with proposed road improvements.
Negotiate with municipalities and other utility companies regarding purchase, lease, or sale of inner ducts, fiber, or complete networks.